Cardiac Issues in Women

Written by: Department of Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery
Published: March 9, 2023
4 min Read

What are some cardiac issues that women should be aware of?

Heart disease is the most common cardiac issue that women should be aware of. Women are more likely to have heart attack symptoms unrelated to chest pain, such as neck, jaw, shoulder, upper back, or abdominal discomfort, shortness of breath, pain in one or both arms, nausea or vomiting, sweating, light-headedness or dizziness, and unusual fatigue.

What are some risk factors for heart disease in women?

Some risk factors for heart disease in women include diabetes, mental stress and depression, smoking, inactivity, menopause, broken heart syndrome, and pregnancy complications.

How can women reduce their risk of heart disease?

Women can make several lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of heart disease, including quitting or not starting smoking, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a heart-healthy diet that includes whole grains, fruits and vegetables, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, and lean meats. Women should also take prescribed medications appropriately and manage other conditions that are risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes.

What are some treatment options for heart disease in women?

Treatment for heart disease is similar for both women and men and may include medications, angioplasty, stenting, or coronary bypass surgery. Women who don’t have typical chest pain may be less likely to be offered these potentially lifesaving options. Doctors may also recommend cardiac rehabilitation to improve health and recover from heart disease.